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24/7 Real Sports TalkThu, 26 Feb 2015 04:06:23 +0000enhourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2Grid Iron Audible–What, me worry?http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/09/19/grid-iron-audible-what-me-worry/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/09/19/grid-iron-audible-what-me-worry/#commentsThu, 19 Sep 2013 15:44:58 +0000Steve Masseyhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=101410Given the statistical age that we live in, the 12% number practically screams at fans of teams that have begun the season 0-2. That is to say: only 12% of teams starting their NFL seasons O for two go on to reach the post-season for a shot at the coveted Lombardi Trophy. You hear the [...]]]>

Given the statistical age that we live in, the 12% number practically screams at fans of teams that have begun the season 0-2. That is to say: only 12% of teams starting their NFL seasons O for two go on to reach the post-season for a shot at the coveted Lombardi Trophy.
You hear the number on the radio, on T.V. and in the lunchroom at work. Numbers schmumbers. The stat is valid only because bad teams often start their season at 0-2. A few years ago, the Giants started out 0-2, but went on to win the Super Bowl. I can recall a Bobby Ross coached Chargers squad in the 80’s starting a season 0-4 before winning 11 of their last 12 in route to a division crown. In 1976, the defending two-time Champion Pittsburgh Steelers started 1-4 before reeling off nine straight wins.
0-2 is not the kiss of death. It is merely a record that usually belongs to bad teams. The operative word for the purpose of this article is usually.
In the spirit of the great sage and legendary football fan Alfred E. Neuman of Mad Magazine, today we’ll look at the seven teams that have had the misfortune of beginning the season by losing their first two games. We’ll assign each team a Mad Parody title based on what we discover, thus separating which of these squads should hang their hopes on next year’s draft and free-agent market, and which should hang tough, adhering to Alfred’s optimistic motto: What, me worry?

Pittsburgh Steelers, The Empire Strikes Out, Issue 220, Jan. ‘82
It should be a tough call to write off a team led by a two-time Super Bowl winning quarterback, but the OL is porous and there are constantly defenders applying duress to Big Ben. With just seventy-five yards amassed and two first downs on the ground, the run game has turned to the dark side. Without a Jedi to wield a light saber, it appears the defense is the only thing to keep the Steel City franchise from mediocrity, but one sack to date shows very little promise. With the Bears, Ravens (twice), Bengals, Patriots and the Packers still on the schedule, it could be curtains for the Steel Curtain. Outlook: Yes, you worry.

Cleveland Browns, Road to Sedation, Issue 423, Nov. ‘02
Not even Tom Hanks could save this snoozefest of a season for the Browns. Brandon Weeden looked at least watchable in the preseason, but an injury has sidelined him and his 62 QB Rating, now home town boy Brian Hoyer will be handed the keys in lieu of Jason Campbell. While most of Cleveland bemoans their fate, somewhere Bernie Kosar is toasting this good fortune. With enough young talent on the offensive side of the ball and an overachieving D, I expect this mob to win a few games, but they won’t win nearly enough to see the post season. Outlook: Yes, you worry.

After writing this part of the article, I learned of the Trent Richardson trade to the Colts. I won’t rewrite the segment, but I will assign a new Mad Parody title: 201 minutes of a Space Idiocy, Issue 125, Mar. ‘69

New York Giants, Spider-Sham, Issue 418, Jun. ‘02
It’s not just that we’ve seen this team comeback before, nor is it because they find themselves only a game back. When you break it down to the brass tacks, the Giants haven’t played that poorly. Eli has thrown 7 picks on the year, throw in a couple of fumbles and it adds up to 0-2. As sticky a web as that may be, there are positives to be gleaned. The G-Men have outgained their opponents 854-745. They also hold the lead in first downs 49-45. The Defense has been leakier than the sources of The Daily Bugle, but with plenty of playmakers on that side of the ball, we can expect them to shore it up before the levee breaks. Better play from Eli and some consistency in the running game should help to get Tom Coughlin’s crew back on the path to contention. Outlook: What, me worry?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers, The Oddfather, Issue 155, Dec. ‘72
Scheduling alone would make the rest of this season difficult. The best teams in the league might struggle with the Saints, Falcons (twice), Eagles, Patriots, Lions and the entire NFC West still on the slate. Throw in the controversies which are starting to brew, Josh Freeman trade rumors, Darrell Revis’ visit to the Don’s office and the Bucs generally lethargic start and they may soon be sleeping with the fishes. I was hard on Greg Schiano last year when he rushed the QB kneel play against the Giants, but he stuck to his guns and his team played pretty well down the stretch. If he manages to raise a phoenix from the ashes this year, give that man an extension offer that he can’t refuse. Outlook: Yes, you worry.

Carolina Panthers, Stuporman ZZZ, Issue 242, Dec. ‘83
Cam Newton has looked more Clark Kent than Superman thus far, averaging a paltry 5.8 YPA in route to being dumped behind the line 7 times for minus 52 yards. He has been too selective as well, hitting only six receivers on the season. His 53 yards rushing almost negate the sacks. Bright spots on offense are the resurgence of DeAngelo Williams (171/4.4) and the play of TE Greg (Jimmy) Olsen (12/140/1). Carolina’s defense may be over-advertised. With 806 yards allowed, the scheme looks more Lex Luthor than Ron Rivera. In a division with both the Saints and Falcons, the remaining schedule may be more lethal than a big chunk of kryptonite. Outlook: Yes, you worry.

Jacksonville Jaguars, Groan with the Wind, Issue 300, Jan. ‘91
What can I say about this team? Frankly, no one gives a damn. Blaine Gabbert, bless his heart, has no business running an offense in this league. Justin Blackmon has been missing in action since leaving Oklahoma St. and Maurice Jones-Drew (our hero) has returned from the war an apparently disabled veteran. If it were not for Cleveland throwing in the towel on the season, this team would be on the clock for next April’s draft. Cecil Shorts has been the lone bright spot thus far…did I mention that no one gives a damn? Outlook: Yes, you worry.

Minnesota Vikings, The Wizard of O, Issue 505, Oct. ‘10
It would be easy to look at the stat sheet and say Christian Ponder hasn’t played well, but stats at a glance can be deceiving. He threw 3 interceptions at Detroit, but 2 of those first hit his receivers’ hands. With the pick 6 he tossed at Chicago, the fault is mostly on Jerome Simpson, who failed to come back to the ball. Ponder is playing much improved over last year, though the breaks haven’t fallen his way. He’s hung tough in the pocket (courage), played heady when nothing was open (brain) and taken the blame on his shoulders at the podium (heart). On a team that has the great and powerful A.D. (AKA A.P., AKA the Wizard), all that is missing is defense. The D has been horrible so far, with 880 yards surrendered and only a single sack registered. The sacks will come, and with them a reduction of yards allowed and first downs to their opponents. There’s no place like home, and with eight home games still on the schedule, this team may yet travel quite a distance down the yellow brick road. Outlook: What, me worry?

In a perfect world I would wrap this up with a clever Mad-style fold-in, perhaps showing an 0-2 record transformed to 12-4 0r 10-6, but if this world were perfect, there would be no Mad Magazine, no fold-ins, no Alfred E. Neuman and no Grid Iron Audible. Thanks for reading. 9/18/13

Photo Credit: Mad Magazine

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/09/19/grid-iron-audible-what-me-worry/feed/2Grid Iron Audible–NFL Predictions 2013http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/08/28/grid-iron-audible-nfl-predictions-2013/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/08/28/grid-iron-audible-nfl-predictions-2013/#commentsThu, 29 Aug 2013 01:29:28 +0000Steve Masseyhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=100977“I’m out there. I’m out there, Jerry, and I’m loving every minute of it.” Kramer of Seinfeld wasn’t referring to his football predictions, but ‘out there is out there’. Last season I nailed 4 division winners, the Super Bowl loser, and the DROY (Kuechly), for a score of 6 out of a possible 15 (Hey, [...]]]>

“I’m out there. I’m out there, Jerry, and I’m loving every minute of it.” Kramer of Seinfeld wasn’t referring to his football predictions, but ‘out there is out there’. Last season I nailed 4 division winners, the Super Bowl loser, and the DROY (Kuechly), for a score of 6 out of a possible 15 (Hey, it’s not as easy as it sounds. Give it a try). Without further ado, my picks for this season.

AFC WestDenver 11-5 Even with their injuries and looming suspensions, the Broncos have enough to walk away with this division. Peyton is simply the best quarterback of our time (Super Bowl rings not withstanding), and the addition of Wes Welker makes his corps of receivers the best in football. Even if the D is suspect, Kansas City and San Diego haven’t done enough to catch them yet.

Kansas City 8-8 Andy Reid will be a huge upgrade over Romeo Crennel, as will a steady Alex Smith over an inconsistent Matt Cassel. Jamaal Charles is one of the most explosive runners in the game, and he seems a custom fit for Reid’s West Coast style. The defense, rich in talented players, has struggled behind a weak front in recent seasons. The front three will determine how well this team finishes.

San Diego 7-9 Seven wins may be overly optimistic for this team. Philip Rivers, once the reason this team was annually considered a Super Bowl contender, has in the last two seasons become an enigma of sorts. With suspect arm strength and questionable decision making, the lack of playmakers in the injury riddled receiving corps has never been more glaring. The additions of rookie MLB Manti Te’o and journeyman pass rusher Dwight Freeney will improve an already promising young defense.

Oakland 2-14Commitment to Excellence is still the motto of this storied franchise, but perhaps they should consider aiming just a bit lower this year. The Raiders have been so bad for so long, they’re not even fun to hate anymore. With questions about Darren McFadden’s health and just about every other position on the team, any chance of the silver and black contending this season would have to be considered in the realm of divine intervention.

AFC South Houston 11-5 This may be the most balanced team in football. The Texans run game, which features Arian Foster and Ben Tate meshes well with a vertical passing game that features the ageless Andre Johnson and steady tight-end Owen Daniels. On defense, the addition of journeyman Ed Reed will only improve an already elite unite with J.J. Watt and Brian Cushing. This team would contend in any division.

Indianapolis 9-7 Andrew Luck is back, and this time not as a stone cold rookie. He will battle some tough defenses though, with a less than stellar run game and minus the emotion that fired the team last year. For the Colts to make a return trip to the playoffs, he’ll probably need an additional receiver to step in and lighten the load of Reggie Wayne.

Tennessee 8-8 CJ2K might not rush for 2,000 yards, but the explosiveness is back in and out his cuts and I expect he’ll have an all-star season. Jake Locker has looked comfortable in the preseason, and though he may not yet remind anyone of Steve McNair, he should be much improved. I expect the Titans to turn some heads and push the Colts this year.

Jacksonville 4-12 I may be doing the Jaguars an injustice here, but they’re a difficult team to research, and their recent history suggests that they’re just not very good. Any time you go into a season with some question as to who your number one QB should be (Montana and Young being the exception) you are apt to have problems. MJD is back, but only time will tell if he can fully rebound to the powerhouse he once was. Justin Blackmon should show marked improvement over his rookie campaign.

AFC Central Cincinnati 10-6 A strong, young defense fuels this pick, as Geno Atkins teams with MLB Rey Maualuga and newcomer James Harrison to bring plenty of attitude to the party. On offense, Andy Dalton has improved in each of his two seasons, and has looked better still in the preseason. With any production at all from the running game, led by Ben Jarvis-Green-Ellis, the Dalton to A.J. Green connection might even see a post season victory.

Baltimore 10-6 I sold Joe Flacco and Ray Lewis short last year and they made me pay by beating my Super Bowl pick (Patriots) in the AFC title game. Ray is gone, but there remains plenty to be optimistic about in Poe’s favorite haunts; Ray Rice is still as down as you want to be at halfback, and Flacco, recently elevated to the ranks of the one-percenters with a mega contract, played as clutch as Super Joe in the last post season. T-Sizzle is still around, and now Elvis (Dumervil) is also in the building. And yes, they still have a giant named Haloti Ngata clogging the middle…maybe I should rethink this pick (gulp).

Pittsburgh 8-8 This one scares me, if only because of the years of history that stand against it. Big Ben is a 2 time Super Bowl winning QB and we might as well say the same thing about Troy Polamalu (he QB’s the D), who unlike Roethlisberger, seems to be playing as well as ever. On offense the running game is questionable at best, the speed of Mike Wallace has left for Miami, and the line has proved to be incapable of keeping Ben on his feet. On Defense the big hits that defined James Harrison’s play have moved to division rival Cincinnati and the unit is a year older, and a year slower.

Cleveland 7-9 Norv Turner’s arrival will be as good for Cleveland as his departure was for San Diego. Brandon Weeden will be the chief beneficiary of Norv’s offensive genius, but the upgrade should benefit the young receivers and RB Trent Richardson as well. I expect this offense to be one of the most improved in football, but the tough division will keep them out of the post season. Maybe next year.

AFC East New England 10-6 This one is going to make the haters scoff, but as long as Tom Brady is under center, this team is a contender. Gronk is practicing again, and that bodes well. If newcomer Danny Amendola stays healthy, you can pencil him in for a hundred grabs. Stevan Ridley was more than adequate on the ground last year and the other backs in the stable (Bolden, Blount and Vereen) are as able as any group in the league. On defense Vince Wilfork and Jerod Mayo anchor an underrated unit. This is an easy pick in one of the weakest divisions in football.

Miami 8-8 I know some pundits have picked the Dolphins to win the division, but I can’t see it. New comer Dustin Keller is done for the season and to say Lamar Miller is an upgrade over Reggie Bush would be a stretch at this point. Tannehill was pretty good as a rookie signal caller, but I don’t see Mike Wallace as being enough to put the Fins over the hump. On defense Cameron Wake is a beast of a pass rusher, but is he enough?

Buffalo 5-11 C.J. Spiller’s health will mean everything to this offense this year, as will Fred Jackson’s and Stevie Johnson’s, and the play of currently injured rookie QB E.J. Manuel. When you sign Matt Leinart 2 weeks before the season starts, it may be a long year.

New York Jets 3-13 Wow! Sound-bites, quarterback competitions, questionable coaching calls, injuries and running with the bulls. Never in the history of football has a team this bad gotten this much media coverage. There isn’t a lot good to say here. The Jets best player is in Tampa now, and their best prospect at QB might be to bring Bret Favre out of retirement. Yikes.

NFC East Washington 10-6 This division is one of the toughest to call for me. RGIII played lights out last season, as did fellow rookie Alfred Morris, in route to a division crown. Coming back from injury is always a concern, and NFL defenses won’t be taken in by the read-option as easily this year, but I think the kid has enough hutzpah and that Mike Shanahan has enough coaching for them to get it done again. On Defense the return of Brian Orakpo will help to keep the Skins in the hunt.

New York Giants 10-6 Tom Coughlin is every bit the coach that Mike Shanahan is, and Eli is a two-time Super Bowl champ. With Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks to catch the ball, and the emergence of David Wilson as a long run threat, this division could just as easily belong to the G-men. JPP and Justin Tuck are still able to wreak havoc on opposing QB’s, even though Osi has moved south.

Dallas 9-7 This division may come down to a single play, and Tony Romo could be the one to make it. With a competent corps of receivers (Bryant, Austin and Witten) and a capable running game (Murray), staying healthy may prove to be the Cowboys biggest challenge. On defense, new DC Monte Kiffin hopes that the transition from the 3-4 to the 4-3 will be smooth for sack-master Andre Ware.

Philadelphia 6-10 Chip Kelly’s up-tempo offense was a thing of beauty at Oregon, but as to how well it translates to the NFL, only time will tell. Mike Vick has looked good in the preseason, but has struggled with consistency throughout his career, and there is always the health of Shady McCoy and a banged up receiving group to consider. I think this is a work in progress.

NFC North Green Bay 10-6 In the division I thought the best in football last year, we may see a significant drop off this season. Aaron Rodgers is probably the best passer in football, and even without a running game he will once again light up the scoreboard wherever he plays. On defense, Clay Matthews leads a high-motor unit that should have no trouble grabbing the division crown.

Chicago 8-8 Even without Urlacher this defense can hit, create turnovers and get after the quarterback. The problem for the Bears is under center. Sure, you can expect a hundred catches for mega-talent Brandon Marshall, and you can also expect great play from the versatile Matt Forte, but you can also expect a slew of bad decisions from Jay ‘Jeff George’ Cutler, and in this league—in this division—you just can’t get away with many of those.

Minnesota 7-9 A great halfback and good defense will win you a few games, but this is a passing league now, and it’s hard to compete without a strong passing game. Ponder played well last year, but I’m not convinced that a talkative Greg Jennings is an upgrade over Percy Harvin. Christian played better than I thought last year; perhaps he’ll surprise me again.

Detroit 6-10 Matt Stafford went from one of the greatest statistical seasons ever to ‘what in the world is that’? He was so focused on getting the ball to Megatron, that he has me wondering how well he can really play the position. A return to his 2011 form wouldn’t shock me, but it would do much to mess up this pick of mine. A defensive line with such prospects like Suh, Fairley and Ansah has the potential to be severely disruptive.

NFC South Atlanta 10-6 I struggled with this one too; if it wasn’t for the addition of Steven Jackson, I may have given the nod to the Saints. Matt Ryan is poised to step into the elite at his position, and White, Jones and the return of the incomparable Tony Gonzalez gives him plenty of targets. The 11th ranked defense of 2012 may struggle to improve on that ranking in this division.

New Orleans 10-6 I’ve seen this team picked last elsewhere, but I can’t imagine that. The return of Sean Peyton should bring some continuity back to this powerhouse offense, and a healthy Jimmy Graham won’t hurt either. If new DC Rob Ryan can get the porous defense up to even ‘average’, we should see the “Who Dat’s” back in the playoffs.

Tampa Bay 8-8 I had difficulty predicting the record, not the placement in the standings, with this team. I like what they’re doing in Tampa, and while Freeman and Jackson and Martin are doing their thing on the offensive side of the ball, the Bay’s new Island (Revis) and ex-49er safety Dashon Goldson will help to shore up a leaky secondary. There is a lot of talent on this squad that may surprise.

Carolina 7-9 Another tough choice. The Panthers won five of six down the stretch last year, and seven of their losses were by a TD or less. Steve Smith is a year older and the running game seems to lack any star quality. This puts a lot of weight on Cam Newton’s shoulders. On defense, rookie of the year Luke Kuechly leads a squad that will face a brutal schedule.

NFC West Seattle 11-5 Russell Wilson surprised many last year, as did Marshawn Lynch. Although we know what to look for this season, a ball control offense coupled with a stout D is a tough combination to beat, and Seattle’s defense is the best in football. Write them down for eight home wins, and three or four on the road. I see them going deep into the post season.

San Francisco 11-5 Jim Harbaugh proved smarter than all of his critics last year when he chose second year man Colin Kaepernick over Alex Smith midway through the season, and I expect nothing less from him this year. Still one of the best defenses in football, the pressure is again on the 49er offense. Injuries at wide receiver have added additional pressure to Kaepernick, Frank Gore and TE/SE Vernon Davis, but I believe they’re up to the task.

Saint Louis 6-10 I know the Rams played great against their division last year, but with the departures of Steven Jackson and Danny Amendola, they will have a much tougher time this season. Sam Bradford may show improvement and rookie sensation Tavon Austin will no doubt have his moments, but even James Laurinaitis and the rest of the D will not be enough to bail out this offense against the other defenses in the West.

Arizona Cardinals 6-10 Larry Fitzgerald has longed for a QB to get him the ball since Kurt Warner exchanged his shoulder pads for a microphone, and the Cardinals signed a man who can do it in Carson Palmer. The running game rests on the damaged knees of Rashard Mendenhall and will unlikely produce the results they hope for. On defense, Patrick Peterson leads a group that may once again need to overachieve to carry a beleaguered offense.

That’s all folks, and not even a thin sheet of gabardine to protect me from my critics. Please chime in and tell me where I went wrong, why I went wrong and how I should bet if I happen into a sports book in Vegas. Thanks for reading.

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/08/28/grid-iron-audible-nfl-predictions-2013/feed/2Grid Iron Audible—Preseason Takeawayshttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/08/20/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94preseason-takeaways/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/08/20/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94preseason-takeaways/#commentsTue, 20 Aug 2013 14:12:36 +0000Steve Masseyhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=100776I’ve been very vocal about the league rules in recent years taking some of the pop out of the game in the interest of player safety. I never liked the call of a hit on a defenseless receiver. It seemed that a good whack by the safety when you ran a route across the middle [...]]]>

I’ve been very vocal about the league rules in recent years taking some of the pop out of the game in the interest of player safety. I never liked the call of a hit on a defenseless receiver. It seemed that a good whack by the safety when you ran a route across the middle was a part of the game, but the league decided it was a part of the game that we can do without. Whether the league decision was right or wrong is subjective; you either agree with it or you don’t. But no matter which side of the fence you stand on, there is no denying that all decisions and actions have consequences.

Justin Keller’s season came to an end when Houston safety D. J. Swearinger went low with a tackle, which resulted in tearing ligaments in Keller’s knee. Some have called it a low blow and a dirty hit.

Now before we judge that young man, let’s consider this: he swears he went low in an attempt to comply with league rules. According to Andrew Abramson of the Palm Beach Post, Swearinger said the following: “I was making a hit playing football. In this league, you’ve got to go low. If you go high, you’re going to get a fine. I’m sorry that happened. I would think you’d rather have more concussions than leg injuries. Leg injury, you can’t come back from that. A concussion, you be back in a couple of weeks.”

For those who think Swearinger isn’t sincere, he tweeted this: Everybody pray 4 justin keller….i pray you have a speedy recovery bro…and kill it when you get back…. DEFINITELY wasnt intentional..

It’s still a little early for most predictions, and a game by game recap of week two in the preseason sounds about as exciting as watching the Oakland Raider backups, so I’ll just hammer out a few observations that I noticed whilst perusing through the first half of several of this week’s games.

Tony Romo to Dez Bryant will be an epic connection this year. Romo has yet to shed the choker moniker worn by golfer Phil Mickelson for years, but he still has plenty of game left. Bryant has shown the skills to be mentioned when discussing the top receivers in the game.

The San Diego Chargers offensive line and special teams units are a mess. If both units don’t show vast improvement by opening day, it won’t matter much who is coaching them, or who is taking the snaps under center.

Brandon Weeden will show the most improvement of any of last season’s offensive rookies, and his Cleveland Browns could well be the most improved team.

Andy Dalton of the Bengals looks very sharp, even without A.J. Green. It is hard to imagine he won’t claim a place among the league’s elite quarterbacks with Green’s return.

Tom Brady is not God, but he may be some sort of quarterback demi-god. Danny Amendola should have a season that will drive fantasy footballers crazy.

Chris Johnson will have a huge year, and the results of the play-action that stems from this will benefit Jake Locker immensely.

Russell Wilson is the best quarterback to play for the Seahawks since…well, since ever (sorry, Jim Zorn).

3 early predictions for the Saints: Drew Brees will chase his own yardage record, the world will notice the return of Sean Payton to the sidelines, and Jimmy Graham will not be left off the Top 100 Players list next season.

As advertised, just a few takeaways from the second week of preseason action. I didn’t get the chance to watch every game yet, and even if I had, I won’t make my annual predictions until after week three, when I’ve had a better chance to assess the first team units of most teams. The NFC will be a more difficult this season than their counterparts. A week short of making the picks and I’ve only decided on one division winner. Tune in next week to find out who plays in (and wins) this season’s Super Bowl, MVP, Comeback Player, Rookie of the Year, etc.

If you have observations to add to these, or objections to those I’ve expressed, please feel free to chime in in the comments section, as your feedback is always appreciated. Thanks for reading.

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/08/20/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94preseason-takeaways/feed/2Grid Iron Audible–Young Gunshttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/08/14/grid-iron-audible-young-guns/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/08/14/grid-iron-audible-young-guns/#commentsWed, 14 Aug 2013 19:45:42 +0000Steve Masseyhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=100774 Peyton Manning has long been the face of the National Football League. Perhaps not exclusively (Tom Brady), but he is certainly a high profile player who is instantly recognizable to the average fan. Before Peyton there was Brett Favre, with Joe Montana before him, [...]]]>

Peyton Manning has long been the face of the National Football League. Perhaps not exclusively (Tom Brady), but he is certainly a high profile player who is instantly recognizable to the average fan. Before Peyton there was Brett Favre, with Joe Montana before him, Roger Staubach, Joe Namath, and Johnny Unitas and on and on back to the advent of the forward pass. The subject is always debatable, of course, and the careers overlap, but one thing that is certain is that we football fans love our gunslingers.Even if you don’t think Peyton is currently the guy, names like Brady and Brees, Rodgers and Roethlisberger, Romo and even Rivers have all warranted consideration in the last five years, not to mention Carson Palmer and Peyton’s little brother Eli, or the recently retired Kurt Warner.

With all due respect to the great workhorse backs of the league, the QB is the guy who handles the ball on every play, and the one who gets the most attention. Although Trigger and Bullet and Silver were great horses, Roy Rogers, Gene Autry and The Lone Ranger were the ones who got the headlines, which these days translates into commercial deals and NFL Network specials.

Every ten to fourteen years, nature and attrition dictate a changing on the guard. Warner was the first of the aforementioned group to step away from the field, and in all probability Rodgers will be the last. In the next four to six years, all of them (with Rodgers the lone exception) will be gone from the grid iron.

That doesn’t mean we’ll see an abnormally large number of collegiate signal callers flooding into the league at the same time, however, we’ve already been there and done that. It may be a bit surprising, but there are currently 13 players twenty-five years of age or younger that are slated to start under center this season. There are an additional 4 competing for the starting job, and one back-up (Kirk Cousins, Redskins) that would likely start if he played elsewhere.

Not all of them will have illustrious careers; some will washout, and some succumb to injury, but others…others will one day be enshrined in Canton and don the fabled yellow jackets. Now whether or not they end up in the Hall of Fame isn’t important, but we better get used to their faces, because we will see them for the next ten to fifteen years if we keep watching the games.

They’re not all rookies, or even experienced for that matter. In today’s NFL, it’s rare for a player to sit for several years before getting a shot under center. There was a day when no coach in his right mind would throw a rookie to the defenses of this league, but there seems to be a new sheriff in town, and with him a new modus operandi. RGIII, Andrew Luck, and Russell Wilson all got their shots as rookies last season, and all went to the playoffs. Colin Kaepernick got his opportunity halfway through his second year, and led his team to the Super Bowl.

Those aren’t the only of this group with promise; Matt Stafford of Detroit has thrown for over 10,000 yards and 61 touchdowns in the last two seasons. With four years in the league, he has seen quite a lot of action for a 25 year old.

The same may be said of Tampa Bay’s Josh Freeman. Although only 25, Josh has already started 57 games as a Buc. Last year, he posted career highs for yards 4,065 and touchdowns 27.

Not to be outdone, another 25 year old signal caller, Andy Dalton of the Bengals has shown marked improvement in each of his two seasons, leading his team to the playoffs twice. His numbers from the first two years match-up with, and perhaps even outshine, those of two other QB’s (Joe Flacco and Matt Ryan) who just signed nine figure contracts.

At 24, Cam Newton has shown that a young man can play in this league. In 2 seasons he has accounted for over 9,400 yards of total offense and 62 touchdowns. That’s a great start for a career that could last another ten to fifteen years.

There are others that haven’t posted great numbers yet. There are some who haven’t yet been given their chance. But names like, Sam Bradford, Christian Ponder, Jake Locker, Blaine Gabbert, Ryan Tannehill, Terrelle Pryor, Kirk Cousins, Geno Smith, E.J. Manuel and Matt Barkley could all soon be commonplace.

Just as Tom Mix gave way to John Wayne, and the Duke yielded to a young Clint Eastwood, who in turn handed the reins over to the likes of Emilio Estevez, Kiefer Southerland and Lou Diamond Philips, the young guns will always be around. We may resist them at first, but eventually they grow facial hair and become our grizzled veterans, our fiery field generals and fixtures in our “all-time greats” debate.

This season, I’m looking forward to see who the next Wild Bill Hickok or Wyatt Earp may be, and who will end up as the next Davis Tutt (Google it).

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/08/14/grid-iron-audible-young-guns/feed/3Grid Iron Audible—Put Up or Pack Uphttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/07/11/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94put-up-or-pack-up/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/07/11/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94put-up-or-pack-up/#commentsThu, 11 Jul 2013 21:27:13 +0000Steve Masseyhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=100378Grid Iron Audible—Put Up or Pack Up As the summer season heightens and the mercury continues to rise, as the UV rays promise cancerous lesions and the ice cold drinks can no longer thin out the thick humid air, I find myself looking forward to autumn. Autumn brings welcome changes. The fishing picks up, the [...]]]>

Grid Iron Audible—Put Up or Pack Up

As the summer season heightens and the mercury continues to rise, as the UV rays promise cancerous lesions and the ice cold drinks can no longer thin out the thick humid air, I find myself looking forward to autumn.
Autumn brings welcome changes. The fishing picks up, the cottontails begin to run about at sunset, and the mosquitoes go…well, wherever it is that mosquitoes go. The white-tail deer become lively, perhaps in anticipation of the approaching hunting season, the weather begins to cool, and the leaves promise a panorama of color that would shame even the greatest of the masters.
The best changes of all, perhaps, occur in America’s two favorite sports. Baseball, long referred to as our national pastime, goes through its own version of autumn, when we begin to see the long grind of the regular season transform into the beauty of the pennant chase. In this final stretch we’ll see the contenders separate themselves from the pretenders, who is clutch and who is choke, and ultimately, which team is worthy of being called World Champions.
As baseball is winding down, football is just kicking off with plenty of its own changes. The NFL, after all, is a league of parity, and last year’s chumps might well be this year’s champs…at this time of year anything is possible. We’ve all seen the worst-to-first and first-to-worst phenomena, and for fans of subpar teams, this is our greatest hope at this time of year.
As training camps break, and the weather begins to cool, some league personnel and players should be feeling the heat. We can only speculate who will remain cool while perched in the hot seat, and who will go down in flames. The following coaches and players need be aware that the time has come to turn or burn. For these men the 2013 NFL season will be a time for them to put up or pack up.

Jason Garrett, Head Coach, Dallas Cowboys
6-10, 8-8 and 8-8, this pretty well says it all about the Cowboys last three seasons. I can’t see another middle of the road season keeping Jerry Jones lid from blowing. He’s been fairly patient with Garrett for a couple of years now, but anything short of a post season berth in 2013 should send Jones scrambling to lure a big name out of retirement…say someone like a Bill Cowher or Jon Gruden.

Rex Ryan, Head Coach, New York Jets
After making it to the AFC championship game in his first two seasons (’09-’10) at the helm of the Jets, the slimmed down, new look Rex will probably have to beef up his team’s performance to remain their leader. Last season’s 6-10 record was down from the lackluster 8-8 of 2011 when he promised to win the Super Bowl before later admitting that he had lost the “pulse” of his locker room. Quarterback competitions and team dysfunction aside, anything short of a return to the playoffs this year, then the man with exactly the same amount of Super Bowl rings as Norv Turner may find himself either looking for work as a DC or running with the bulls, but he won’t be with the J-E-T-S.

Mark Sanchez, QB, New York Jets
Ryan’s fate is undoubtedly handcuffed with that of his signal-caller, Mark Sanchez. With his career QB rating at a paltry 71.7, and a touchdown to interception ratio at a pedestrian 68-69, Sanchez is in all likelihood faced with his last opportunity to be a starter in this league. That opportunity comes with the presumption that he beats out rookie Geno Smith for the job come training camp and preseason, and the caveat that he plays the position at an NFL level, something that he, to date, has struggled to do. Another ho-hum season from the USC Alum will bring about the old heave-ho.

Jay Cutler, QB, Chicago Bears
The talk about how great Cutler’s arm is has been all the rage for about seven years now. The same can be said for the talk about Jay’s athletic ability and his potential to be great. After four years in black and orange, the football messiah talk in Chitown has died down to back room murmuring. Although they signed Brandon Marshall to revitalize the spark that Cutler displayed (at least for one season) in Denver, Jay still plays at a just above average level for this league. His 84.0 career QB rating is probably right around where it will be when he retires, but you never know. As the pressure builds, perhaps he will finally realize that much discussed potential. Do keep in mind, however, that in his best season (’08 Denver), Jay was sacked only 11 times. With the Bears he has been taken down an average of 37 times a season.
While improved line play will help, what may serve him better are a couple of things that he can control. He can start to improve his play by learning not to throw when his primary target is covered. This is something I noticed about Jay long ago; when he’s made his mind up where he wants to throw, he doesn’t care how covered his guy is, or how small the window for a completion. Changing this one thing will cut down the unnecessary picks and up his rating. The second place Cutler can improve his game is in his body language. The time for pouting passed him by sometime before enrolling at Vanderbilt. His teammates can see this as well as the rest of us—and it’s just not good leadership.
Another average season probably won’t get him run out of town, but it should certainly quell any talk about how great he will ever be, and the comparisons to Jeff George will be much more justified.

Ryan Mathews, RB, San Diego Chargers
The Chargers traded up to get Mathews with the 12th pick in the 2010 draft, excited that they had found an immediate replacement for the great L.T. Three seasons later, Mathews has proven that a second T in his surname is not all that he is missing.
His game has been average for those considered gifted enough to be feature-backs in the NFL. Averaging just 825 yards a season, Ryan has missed ten full games due to injuries in three seasons. Although his yards per carry average (4.4) is respectable, his 12 fumbles have offset his 14 touchdowns. Last season, Mathews broke one more collarbone than he scored touchdowns, and the grumblings of “injury bust” are carrying across the continent.
He’s a gifted receiver, but the addition of Danny Woodhead to the San Diego backfield this offseason have some speculating that new head coach Mike McCoy is not sold on his third down skills. This truly could be Mathews’ last chance in blue and gold, and maybe in the league.

And ever on it goes, one season follows the next, each with its own awe and wonder. But this autumn, I wonder who will awe us, and I wonder who will fall.

That’s a wrap on my hot seat for the 2013 season. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the matter, and as always, your feedback is greatly appreciated~Steve

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/07/11/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94put-up-or-pack-up/feed/2Grid Iron Audible—And The Winner Is?http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/12/31/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94and-the-winner-is/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/12/31/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94and-the-winner-is/#commentsMon, 31 Dec 2012 22:22:08 +0000Steve Masseyhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=97282Grid Iron Audible—And The Winner Is? 2012 Season Awards After a brief mourning period for my hapless San Diego Chargers (approximately my fortieth such episode), I am finally able to look back and say: “what a season.” We’ve seen records broken, nearly broken, epic collapses, stunning turnarounds and the best crop of rookies that I [...]]]>

Grid Iron Audible—And The Winner Is? 2012 Season Awards

After a brief mourning period for my hapless San Diego Chargers (approximately my fortieth such episode), I am finally able to look back and say: “what a season.” We’ve seen records broken, nearly broken, epic collapses, stunning turnarounds and the best crop of rookies that I can recall ever seeing come into the league (that’s right 1983, you’ve been bested).
Even as I write this, some coach somewhere is being served his walking papers from the executive version of ‘The Turk’, and perhaps a few G.M.’s are as well. Still others are preparing their teams for the show, because they did their jobs better than at least 20 others this year. While this Monday is black for some, it is merely gray for others, and even lily white to a fortunate few.
In what promises to be a controversial effort, here are my Inaugural Audible Awards.

MVP: Adrian Peterson (The Peyton Manning Trophy)
What a classic year for the man they call All Day. He played this season carrying a team on his back, and he still came within 9 yards of breaking Eric Dickerson’s single season rushing mark. He ran for over 100 yards 10 times, with 9 of those games coming in the last 10 that he played. And it wasn’t like he gained all of his yards against chump defenses either; in 5 games against the four best defenses in the league (Chicago twice, San Francisco, Seattle, and Houston), Peterson compiled 616 yards. Although his team was picked to finish last in just about every preseason poll, he will lead them onto the frozen tundra next week to play the Packers in the Wild Card round. This was an easy decision for me, in spite of Peyton’s popularity. Simply put, Adrian is the best player in football for 2012.Also Considered: Peyton Manning, Aaron Rodgers, J.J. Watt

Best Quarterback: Aaron Rodgers (The Joe Montana Trophy)
After a bit of a slow start (especially by 2011 standards), the discount double check dude turned it on and made a run for a second straight MVP award. He came up short there, but he once again led the league with a 108.0 QB rating. His 39-8 TD to INT ratio was the best in football, and I believe that he has done much to quell the debate of who the best QB in the NFL is, despite the fact that he has no run support from his backfield and that his best receivers battled injuries for much of the season. Still, this was a tight race and he barely edged Peyton for the award.Also Considered: Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Drew Brees

Best Running Back: Adrian Peterson (The Walter Payton Trophy)
Even easier than the selection for MVP, Peterson out-distanced the other candidates by nearly 500 yards. In a season that saw 6 running back’s gain in excess of 1,400 yards, A.D. left them all behind and walked into the end zone to claim his award.Also Considered: Alfred Morris, Doug Martin, Marshawn Lynch

Best Wide Receiver: Calvin Johnson (The Jerry Rice Trophy)
Despite Megatron breaking Jerry Rice’s yardage record, this was a tough call, if only because of so many candidates clouding the waters. In the end, it simply came down to who I believe is the best, and in that regard it is no contest. Calvin cannot be defended. He only scored 5 TD’s, and that made this a little more difficult, but Matt Stafford played horrific all season long, which makes Johnson’s numbers all the more impressive. He dominated in yardage, big plays (20+ yards), and first downs, not to mention leading the league in receptions.Also Considered: Brandon Marshall, Wes Welker, Andre Johnson, Dez Bryant, A.J. Green, Reggie Wayne

Best Tight End: Tony Gonzalez (The Tony Gonzalez Trophy)
I had no idea that Tony would be in the running for this trophy when I decided to name the award after him, and truth be told, Rob Gronkowski was on pace to run away with it when he went out with an injury. Still, Gonzo played this season more like a man in the prime of his career than like a man on his farewell tour. He hauled in 93 balls for a 10.0 yard average and 8 touchdowns. He outplayed younger men and veterans alike in bringing home the award that bears his name. Congrats Tony and good luck chasing Lombardi.Also considered: Jason Witten, Jimmy Graham

Best Pass Rusher: J.J. Watt (The Reggie White Trophy)
Like Reggie White, J.J. was pure disruption to the flow of offenses on the line. Not only did he lead the league in sacks and batted balls, but he netted the second most tackles (81) of any of the top twenty leaders in sacks. He also forced 4 fumble and recovered 2. He is a lot for offensive coordinators to plan for, and he makes the entire Houston defense much better. Also Considered: Von Miller, Aldon Smith

Best Linebacker: NaVorro Bowman (The Lawrence Taylor Trophy)

Perhaps the hardest choice for me of all the awards, NaVorro wins this by a hair over the several of the other contenders. He is a leader and a driving force behind one of the best defenses in all of football, and he played the inside backer position consistently all year long. Whether playing against the run, rushing the passer or dropping into coverage, Bowman could be counted on to do his job in spectacular fashion. This is a well-deserved award for a blue-collar player, on a blue-collar team.Also Considered: Chad Greenway, Jarod Mayo, Luke Kuechly, London Fletcher, Daryl Washington

Best Pass Defender: Charles Tillman (The Rod Woodson Trophy)
This one is perhaps a bit of a surprise (even to me) because Tillman only had 3 picks, but he also scored 3 times and forced 10 fumbles in route to his 85 tackles. That is 3 more than any other player in the league for the ten year vet, and from the corner position (I wonder how many Dionne had in his career). A much earned award for a hard working player.Also Considered: Tim Jennings, Richard Sherman, Patrick Peterson

Comeback Player: Adrian Peterson (The Tommy John Trophy—Soon to be renamed The Manning-Peterson Trophy)
This has been a two horse race from the beginning. The deciding factor was the nature of the injuries, rather than their location. Peyton suffered nerve damage in his neck, and although we’re talking about a pretty significant obstacle here, Adrian had damaged cartilages and ligaments, which are even more serious. Manning had a great year, Peterson had his best year. Peyton will have to settle for a second award being named after him.Also Considered: Peyton Manning

Best Rookie Offensive Player: Robert Griffin III (The Earl Campbell Trophy)
Rookies have had better seasons (See Earl Campbell and Randy Moss), but RG3 was the best out of a stellar class that produced five starting QB’s, several quality tailbacks, and a few wide receivers who are sure to light up the league leader boards for years to come. The award isn’t indicative of who may or may not have the better career, just who had the best rookie campaign in the regular season. He edges Seattle’s Russell Wilson for the trophy, based on a league low seven turnovers, compared to Wilson’s thirteen.Also Considered: Russell Wilson, Doug Martin, Alfred Morris

Best Rookie Defensive Player: Luke Kuechly (The Derrick Thomas Trophy)
Luke led the NFL in tackles this season with 164, 15 more than NaVorro Bowman, and 24 more than the next best rookie defender, Bobby Wagner. He added a sack, 2 picks, 10 passes defended and recovered 2 fumbles. Carolina has a lot of young talent, and Kuechly proves that it’s not all on the offensive side of the ball.Also Considered: Janoris Jenkins, Casey Hayward, Bobby Wagner

Coach of the Year: Bruce Arians (The Tom Landry Trophy)
The job that Bruce Arians did when Chuck Pagano went out cannot be overstated. Working with a plethora of rookies, Arians took the reins of young team and guided them back to the playoffs after last season dramatic collapse. Pagano is back, but it won’t be long after the Colts season ends when Bruce starts fielding head coaching calls. Look for him to be the head coach somewhere in the next month. Also Considered: Pete Carroll, Mike Shanahan

That’s a wrap on the Audible Awards. Some people will not agree with some of my choices, some will not agree with any of my choices. Some will even hate the names that I’ve tagged to the trophies. To them I would say…well, I don’t know how to spell a Bronx cheer, but you get the picture.
As always, I welcome your comments or retorts with great anticipation.
I’ll see you in the playoffs.

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/12/31/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94and-the-winner-is/feed/2Grid Iron Audible—Playoff Pushhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/12/12/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94playoff-push/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/12/12/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94playoff-push/#commentsWed, 12 Dec 2012 23:40:04 +0000Steve Masseyhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=96763It’s the time of year when the weather begins to turn cold, Christmas shoppers flock to malls, and NFL fans get a sort of psychological Lasik surgery, clearing their vision for better or for worse. They will soon begin to get a clearer picture of their respective teams; are they contenders or pretenders, champs or [...]]]>

It’s the time of year when the weather begins to turn cold, Christmas shoppers flock to malls, and NFL fans get a sort of psychological Lasik surgery, clearing their vision for better or for worse. They will soon begin to get a clearer picture of their respective teams; are they contenders or pretenders, champs or chumps, winners or wieners? It is either euphoric or hectic, depending on the individual; but there’s no denying the buzz in the atmosphere and the excitement it brings.

Some of us have already opened our Christmas gifts to discover that even though we got the Red Rider BB gun we wanted, it will not even shoot well enough to put our eyes out. Those of us that have experienced this misfortune have already turned our eyes toward next season, hoping to find redemption through free agency and next April’s draft. Others still have presents under the tree, and their hope is that they find something other than socks and shirts under the wrapping paper; their hoping to unwrap the Lombardi Trophy.

There are 16 teams that still have a shot at the post season. The Rams, Chargers, Browns and Jets are also in the hunt, but who’s kidding who, these teams are done, and I won’t consider them for this article. Here is a closer look at each of the teams remaining in the show, and some of my thoughts on their chances.

Vikings 7-6
Adrian Peterson is making a case for himself as not only comeback player of the year, but as league MVP as well. In spite of how well as A.D. is playing, the absence of Percy Harvin has hurt this team, and their remaining schedule (@Rams, @Texans, Packers) may be too difficult an obstacle for them to make the tournament.

Redskins 7-6
Rookies RGIII and Alfred Morris have put this team in a position to make the tourney, but Griffin’s injury may have derailed their hopes. Still, they’ve won 4 straight and have a favorable schedule with games at the Browns and Eagles on deck. Their chances could very well come down to the final game of the season, at home against the Cowboys.

Cowboys 7-6
It’s impossible to gauge what kind of toll the recent tragedy will take on this team. Dez Bryant’s injury is very much in play here, and their schedule (Steelers, Saints, @Redskins) is not as favorable as the Redskins. They’re hot with 4 wins in their last 5 games, but if Jerry Jones wants to see his team’s return to the post season, they’ll probably have to win out.

Bengals 7-6
The Bengals are another team that may have to run the table to stay in the show. They’ve been streaky this year, sandwiching two 3 game win streaks around a 4 game skid. Last week’s loss to the emotional Cowboys looms large. They do control their own destiny; with games @Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, before returning home to face Baltimore. If the Cats win out, they’re in.

Steelers 7-6
If history were a reliable indicator, then I’d pencil the Steel City representatives into the playoffs right now. They do, after all, have that mystique about them, not to mention a QB who has two rings. They currently hold the 6th seed in the AFC, and it’s possible that they could limp in with a 9-7 record, but I see Sunday’s game at Dallas as a must win. They finish with home games against the Bengals and Browns, neither of which is a sure bet.

Colts 9-4
It’s possible the Colts surprise me and go past the wild card round; their record thus far has sure taken me by surprise. They get a respite in Kansas City between two games against Houston, who will be playing hard to retain home field advantage against the Patriots, and 10-6 looks very plausible. I see them as Cinderella this year, but the clock is nearing midnight. Expect an early exit from the playoffs for Andrew Luck and company.

Bears 8-5
After losing 4 out of 5 the Bears find themselves reeling. It doesn’t get any easier this weekend, with the Packers coming to town and Jay Cutler banged up. Cutler was healthy when he faced the Pack in Green Bay in week 2, a 4 interception, 7 sack game. They finish the season with games at Arizona and Detroit, and could still reach the playoffs with a 10-6 record, but that would be cutting it close. They’ll have to right the ship immediately to avoid an epic breakdown.

Seahawks 8-5
One of the best teams in football when playing at home (just ask the Cards), the Hawks take their 2-5 road record and shuffle off to Buffalo this week, before finishing with home games against division rivals San Fran and St. Louis. With this defense, you never know, but I’m guessing the city that is known for the Space Needle and Grunge Rock will have to wait another year for a true contender. Still, 10 or 11 wins and a playoff berth have to be considered a successful campaign for Pete Carroll’s squad.

Ravens 9-4
We saw a changing of polarity in the Baltimore franchise this year; as the offense took the reins from the defense, and Joe Flacco, Ray Rice and Torrey Smith became the names that are featured on the marquee, replacing long time staples such as Ray Lewis and T-Sizzle and Ed Reed and Haloti Ngata. The new scheme was working well for most of the season as they got off to a 9-2 start, but 2 consecutive losses have dropped them to the 4th seed in the AFC. This week’s sudden firing of OC Cam Cameron has some people scratching their heads; it’s difficult for me to see the move as anything other than panic. Their remaining games are tough, with home games against the Broncos and Giants, before facing the Bengals on the road. They’ll make the playoffs, but they can’t compete with the elite teams in this conference.

Giants 8-5
Two tough road games await the defending champs, as both the Falcons and Ravens are fighting for position in the playoffs. The G-men finish at home with the Eagles in what may be Andy Reid’s last game for Philly. Eli plays well under pressure, and they’re facing plenty of it with the Cowboys and Redskins both knocking at the door. Tom Coughlin is a great coach, and though I admit this with some reservations, Eli has become a great quarterback, but if the Giants are to repeat, they’ll need JPP, Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora to step up their play and apply some clutch pressure.

49ers 9-3-1
My preseason pick to win the NFC, the Niners have the unenviable task of facing the Patriots and Seahawks in back to back road games before finishing at home with the hapless Cardinals. Although I still believe that San Francisco has the best defense in the league, I see them losing their current 2nd seeding to the surging Packers. The reason I’ve rated them this low is Jim Harbaugh’s decision to hand the team over to Colin Kaepernick, despite Alex Smith playing so well. I know Kaepernick has performed well thus far, but he has yet to face competition like he will see the next two weeks. Perhaps Jim is a genius, and he proves me wrong with the young QB going forward, but more likely he will enter the post season with a QB controversy dividing his locker room. For this to be the year the 49ers return to the Super Bowl, their defense and running game will have to make it happen.

Texans 11-2
On paper, the Texans look like the best team in football. They should at the very least be considered one of the most complete teams. They do, however, seem to struggle against teams with elite offenses. They have faced three this year; the Broncos, Packers and Patriots, losing two by big margins and narrowly escaping Denver (which wasn’t nearly as good then) with a victory. With two games left against the Colts and a home contest with the Vikings, this team has a great chance at holding onto their number 1 seeding in the conference, but I don’t see them beating Tom Brady or Peyton Manning in the playoffs, even at home.

Falcons 11-2
Matt Ryan has plenty of quality receivers to throw to, and there have been times this year when the Falcons offense has looked unstoppable. But of late their running game has gone AWOL, and their middle of the road defense has made them one of the most beatable 11-2 teams that I can recall. They seem to be playing a brand of football better suited to the Patriots or the Packers, and that’s why I won’t give them the top rating in the NFC. They do have a favorable schedule, facing the Giants at home before traveling to Detroit, then returning home to face the Bucs. It is easier for me to see them losing to the Giants or Packers in the divisional round than it is to see them in the Super Bowl and another one and done performance wouldn’t surprise me.

Packers 9-4
Last season’s performance in the regular season has proved to be a tough act to follow for Aaron Rodgers and company, but the team has turned it on in the last two months, winning 7 of 8 and grabbing first place in their division. On paper, they are real close to the Falcons, but games are played on the field. This weekend’s game in Chicago will tell us a lot more about the Pack, who’ll return home to face the Titans before traveling to play the Vikings to finish the year. Taking the second seed from San Francisco could mean all the difference for this team in the post season, so each of their remaining games are vital.

Broncos 10-3
Peyton Manning has elevated this team from the middle of the pack to an elite status. Since losing at New England on October 7th, the Broncos have won 8 straight games, and the team’s confidence seems to grow every week. I can hardly wait for the rematch with New England in the playoffs; Peyton and Tom is a rivalry as great as any in the history of sports, and in my view, destined to occur one more time this season. With a road game at Baltimore, and home games against the Browns and Chiefs, Bronco fans can expect at least 12 wins, and still cling to hope for a bye week.

Patriots 10-3
With the most elite offense in the game, and with Gronkowski expected back soon, the Pats are poised to break the league scoring record of 556 points by the 1998 Vikings. They are on pace to post 581. Their 36.3 scoring average is 7.5 points more than the league’s next best (Broncos 28.8). In their last 6 games, New England has averaged a mind blowing 42.5 points per game, and they’ve turned the ball over less than any team in football. Barring a third upset to the Giants in a Super Bowl, I see Belichick and Brady bringing home their 4th Lombardi Trophy come February.

That’s a wrap on my playoff breakdown. It’s a subjective exercise, sports predictions, much like the weather this time of year. Perhaps I’m right and New England steamrolls through the show onto the biggest stage—or—maybe I’m wrong and the Harbaugh brothers finish one, two in coach of the year voting; stranger things have happened. Whatever the eventual outcome, the coming weeks promise to deliver some meaningful games, some exciting football, and as always when Santa gets involved, some unexpected surprises.
For those of you who disagree with my assessment, I look forward to your comments and objections, as always. For those of you who think I’m in the ballpark, I’d love to hear from you too. Feel free to use the comment box here at PSB, or give me a shout on Twitter @SteveMassey9 or Facebook.
Merry Christmas everyone.

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/12/12/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94playoff-push/feed/2Grid Iron Audible–Home Stretch Awardshttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/12/04/grid-iron-audible-home-stretch-awards/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/12/04/grid-iron-audible-home-stretch-awards/#commentsTue, 04 Dec 2012 20:12:30 +0000Steve Masseyhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=96161Grid Iron Audible—Home Stretch Awards After thirteen weeks of football, there are few surprises left; the average NFL fan can look at the sports page and know what he’s seeing. He can tell the difference between a contender and a pretender and pick the games with the analysts. He knows which coaches are destined to [...]]]>

Grid Iron Audible—Home Stretch Awards

After thirteen weeks of football, there are few surprises left; the average NFL fan can look at the sports page and know what he’s seeing. He can tell the difference between a contender and a pretender and pick the games with the analysts. He knows which coaches are destined to be removed, which G.M.’s should be shown the door, and who he thinks will take home the Lombardi Trophy this winter.

What he doesn’t know is who will win the Audible Awards for the 2012 season. There are a few clear cut choices, but some of the races; Best Quarterback, for instance, and Best Rookie, are far from decided. Some races have taken on new leaders, while others are becoming convoluted with new contenders. Without further ado, the leaders at the home stretch.

MVP: Tom Brady
The stat line says it all; 25 touchdown to 4 interceptions. He simply doesn’t turn the ball over; this is nothing new either, he’s played this well since the beginning of the 2010 season, with 100 touchdowns to 20 picks through Sunday, the best ratio in football. Brady has passed Peyton Manning in the last quarter, and Aaron Rodgers has played himself into the contest, making it a three horse race to the finish line.

Best Offensive Player: Robert Griffin III
This one’s going to shock a few of my readers. RG3 leads this because he is a hard nightmare for defensive coordinators to game plan. He has of late become a night terror for them, leading his team to 3 straight wins in the division, and into post season conversation. His unique blend of style and speed may well change the game. Griffin runs neck and neck here with the three aforementioned quarterbacks, Calvin Johnson and Adrian Peterson.

Best Defensive Player: Von Miller
I was prepared to hand this Award over to Tim Jennings for most of the year, but I can no longer ignore the season that Von Miller has put together. He may be the most disruptive player in the game today, and I would be surprised to see his lead here slip away. Miller leads Jennings, J.J. Watt, Aldon Smith, and Daryl Washington by a head.

Best Rookie: Robert Griffin III
This one looks as if it may end in a photo finish. Andrew Luck is running with RGIII, as are Doug Martin and Alfred Morris. A huge game by any of these guys could dictate the outcome of this one, but all are in it for now.

Best Quarterback: Too Close to CallTom Brady, Peyton Manning and Aaron Rodgers are the only serious candidates, though Alex Smith certainly was on pace to be in the running before his demotion. If the season ended today, I might give the trophy to Rodgers, but I couldn’t say exactly why. Maybe someone will stumble on the way in.

Best Running Back: Adrian Peterson
ACL, MCL; it’s all TCB for A.D. If he sat out the rest of the season, there is still a chance that Adrian would win the rushing crown. It is really a pleasure to watch this man run with the football. I haven’t seen this kind of dominance at the position since Eric Dickerson was at his best. He is punishing defenders on blasts up the middle, breaking ankles in the open field and turning on the jets when he needs them. With a 300 plus yard lead, he is leaving plenty of dust to settle on Doug Martin, Alfred Morris, Arian Foster, Stevan Ridley and Marshawn Lynch.

Best Wide Receiver: Calvin Johnson
Megatron is the leader here because he makes me wonder what could have been if Matt Stafford had played as well as him all year. He’s chasing Jerry Rice’s record for receiving yards, and making a lot of grabs where it hurts, over the middle. He’s impossible to defend, but others are also in this race; Brandon Marshall, A.J. Green and Demaryius Thomas are all a half-length back, while Wes Welker, Dez Bryant, and early leader Victor Cruz are a length behind.

Best Tight End: Tony Gonzalez
Even though Jason Witten has 15 more grabs, Tony is still the lead horse at tight end. He’s been as consistent this season as he has for most of his career. He has competition though, as Rob Gronkowski and Jimmy Graham have established themselves as favorites at this position, with Witten, and newcomer Brandon Myers also in the mix. If no one steps up in the next four weeks, then Gonzo wins the inaugural award, which may be fitting. Maybe I should name the award after him. We’ll find out in the winner’s circle.

Best Pass Rusher: Von Miller
This is a three horse race with Miller leading Aldon Smith and J.J. Watt by the edge of his nose. Everyone else is too far back to have a chance, and five forced fumbles are what has provided him with the current lead. All three of these players are only a great game away from pulling away, but the finish is getting closer.

Best Linebacker: Chad Greenway
Chad’s numbers look a lot like those of NaVorro Bowman, but with 15 more tackles, and I didn’t want to leave him on the list of contenders all season long. If the season was over, I’d give it to him, but it’s crowded in the front with Bowman, Jerod Mayo, Daryl Washington, Von Miller and Wesley Woodyard all sprinting toward the finish.

Best Pass Defender: Tim Jennings
Jennings still has a sizable lead in this race, and barring injury and a big push by someone else, it’s his to lose. He’s been a catalyst for the Bears D, with 8 picks, a touchdown and 27 passes defended. Those who find themselves still technically in the race are Richard Sherman, Casey Hayward and Janoris Jenkins.

We’ve seen most of what the league offers thus far, and I feel a little melancholy about knowing that the race is almost over. But still, the last mad sprint to the finish is where all the fun twists and turns appear, bumps lead to jumps, and heroes are made. The best races are always the ones where the jockey’s face is mud-splattered; wire to wire winners are so passé. In some corners of the world horse racing is considered the sport of kings, but in my world, football is the king of sports.

Photo Credit(s): kentuckyderby.com

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/12/04/grid-iron-audible-home-stretch-awards/feed/3Grid Iron Audible—Best in Divisionhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/11/15/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94best-in-division/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/11/15/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94best-in-division/#commentsThu, 15 Nov 2012 17:07:32 +0000Steve Masseyhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=95551Grid Iron Audible—Best in Division Do you think your team plays in a tough division? Let’s put that thought to the test and compare each of the eight divisions. I’ll list the divisions according to my rankings, beginning with the worst, and progressing to the best. 8. AFC West With the worst record (14-22) and [...]]]>

Grid Iron Audible—Best in Division

Do you think your team plays in a tough division? Let’s put that thought to the test and compare each of the eight divisions. I’ll list the divisions according to my rankings, beginning with the worst, and progressing to the best.

8. AFC West
With the worst record (14-22) and a minus 103 point differential, the division that is home to four AFL charter franchises has lost some of its former glory. There is not a single top flight defense to be found here, and the wide receiver play, throughout the group (though Peyton is in the process of changing that), is as poor as I can recall. At least two, but likely three, of these teams will make coaching changes in the off-season. The Broncos are the class of the division, while the Chiefs are contending for the 2012 TP Award, given for wiping up the rear.

7. AFC South
The 19-18 record through ten weeks may be deceiving due to Houston’s 8-1 mark; the rest of the division is 11-17. Houston is a very good team, but their +107 PD can’t keep the South from posting a league worst -119 points. A couple of more losses, and this group would be challenging the AFC West for the doormat division crown. The Texans own this division, and Jacksonville is the worst team in football.

6. AFC East
Due to the 6-3 record of the Patriots, the AFC East is the very picture of average in the NFL. A 16-20 won/lost record and -42 points outs this group as decidedly un-elite, and as underachieving. It was a tossup here with the NFC East. I let playmakers break the tie, and there just aren’t many to find here. New England is in charge in this neighborhood, with Buffalo and the Jets fighting for the cellar door.

5. NFC East
Only more playmakers elevated this perennial powerhouse over their AFC counterparts. A 16-21 record and -52 points puts these guys in the bottom half of the league. The division that has long been known for dominant defenses has drastically slipped on that side of the ball. There is still plenty of firepower on offense however, and I expect some of these teams to get hot in the home stretch. The Giants are the best in the division, and the Eagles have hit rock bottom.

4. NFC West
With one and a half elite teams (the Hawks are elite at home), this pick will get some people mad. 19-16-2 is a good record, just as +45 net points rates well. The reason I’ve slotted this group here is because I only see one contender here. The Seahawks will play with anyone at home, but they are less than pedestrian on the road (no pun intended). They may make the PS, but they’ll be on the road if they do. The Niners still command this division, and I think the Cards are worse than the Rams, though both are better than last year.

3. NFC South
The Saints should move into positive points this weekend, giving 3 teams here that distinction. A 19-17 record and +64 points are more than respectable, and those numbers are likely to get better. By season’s end, this group could move up to number two, but lack of good defense will keep them from the top slot this year. The Falcons are the most complete team, but the Saints and Bucs are both red hot, while the Panthers are on the canvas.

2. AFC North
19-17 and + 35 points are a bit disappointing for this division. The Bengals, while talented, have taken a step backward from last season, especially on defense. Injury concerns have Pittsburgh slipping of late, and Cleveland…well Cleveland is Cleveland, and still in the midst of a thirty year rebuilding project. I picked the Steelers to win this division, but so far the Ravens have outplayed everyone here, and have to be considered the head of the class.

1. NFC North
The best division in football and it’s not even close. The Black & Blue is back in a big way! With a 23-14 mark, they have 4 more wins than any other division in the league, and their +172 points are +108 points more than the nearest competitor. It’s possible that the playoffs find three of these teams still around. Though anything can happen here, the Bears are in the top spot for now, with the enigmatic Lions holding to the bottom rung.

That’s a wrap on my divisional breakdown. If you don’t agree with my assessment of the Black & Blue Division as number one, there is only one thing I can say. You are wrong. However, I’m always open to dialogue, even from the haters. Please feel free to comment, rant, ramble or donate.

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/11/15/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94best-in-division/feed/6Grid Iron Audible—Mid-Season Awardshttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/10/31/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94mid-season-awards/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/10/31/grid-iron-audible%e2%80%94mid-season-awards/#commentsWed, 31 Oct 2012 20:58:27 +0000Steve Masseyhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=94447 Week eight has come and gone, and whether you’re a glass half empty (“oh man, the season’s half over”), or a glass half full type (“right on, I still have nine weeks of football left”), it is time for the Mid-Season Awards. I’m still feeling good about my San Fran/New England Super Bowl prediction, [...]]]>

Week eight has come and gone, and whether you’re a glass half empty (“oh man, the season’s half over”), or a glass half full type (“right on, I still have nine weeks of football left”), it is time for the Mid-Season Awards. I’m still feeling good about my San Fran/New England Super Bowl prediction, but several of my mini awards have changed hands in the last four weeks. If you’re not satisfied with these picks, wait until after week 12, and we’ll see how they’ve evolved.
Like always, I’ve undoubtedly missed someone, likely even someone that you didn’t. And like always, I cordially invite you to comment and let me know if I dissed or missed your guy.

MVP: Peyton Manning has a QB rating of 109, while averaging 8.2 Yards per throw, with a 17-4 TD-INT ratio. The Broncos are in first place to stay, and the Sheriff is the reason why. This guy is incredible.Also Considered: Aaron Rodgers, Wes Welker, Victor Cruz, Adrian Peterson, Percy Harvin

Best WR: Victor Cruz has 52 receptions for 650 yards and 7 touchdowns, including two of 77 & 80 yards while his team trailed late in games. It looks as if we’ll see plenty more Salsa dancing before the post season.Also Considered: Percy Harvin, Wes Welker, A.J Green, Brandon Marshall

Best TE: Rob Gronkowski has passed his counterparts with several big games this quarter. He may not be the most popular pick, but Gronk has the numbers for his position (43-580-13.5-7), and they’re undisputed.Also Considered: Tony Gonzalez, Jason Witten

Best Pass Rusher: Daryl Washington brings home this award after narrowly missing at linebacker. He is currently third in the league with 8 sacks, but has 34 more tackles than the other contenders here. For an inside linebacker, he’s a beast of a pass rusher.Also Considered: J. J. Watts, Clay Matthews

Best Linebacker: Navorro Bowman wins this by the narrowest of margins, due to his ability to drop into coverage. His 68 tackles and 2 sacks put him in the yard with Daryl Washington, but 6 passes defended and an interception give him the edge for best backer.Also Considered: Daryl Washington, Jarod Mayo, Chad Greenway

Best Pass Defender: Tim Jennings is running away with this award at midseason, with 39 tackles, 6 interceptions and 19 passes defended. Frequently left in man coverage, Jennings has netted 34 of those tackles by himself. Could it be time for a new island to be named?Also Considered: Richard Sherman, Cortland Finnegan

Best Rookie: Robert Griffin III has managed to hold the position from the beginning, but his lead isn’t as commanding as it once was. With a 97.3 passer rating he is still playing above his fellow rookie passers, while adding an additional 476 yards and 6 touchdowns on the ground.Also Considered: Alfred Morris, Doug Martin

That’s a wrap on the Mid-Season Awards, tune in again after week 12 and see who the front runners will be for the home stretch. If you think these picks are ugly, please reference the photo of the Steelers uniforms, and they should look a little sounder. The bumble bee wrappers they wore in the steel city last weekend have surpassed, in my mind, the Denver Broncos vertical sock stripes as the ugliest uniforms I’ve seen. If I owned the Steelers, I’d make them wear those every week until the clinched the division, then let them return to the always cool black and gold for the post season.